Tri tip is a popular and flavorful cut of beef that is perfect for grilling. However, cooking tri tip on a Traeger grill can be tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with the process. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to achieve the perfect tri tip on a Traeger grill at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Introduction

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of cooking tri tip on a Traeger grill, let’s first understand what tri tip is. Tri tip is a triangular muscle that comes from the bottom sirloin of a cow. It is a relatively lean cut of meat with a rich beefy flavor and is perfect for grilling.

However, tri tip can be tough if not cooked properly. That’s why it’s essential to know how long to cook tri tip on a Traeger grill at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, which is the optimal temperature for cooking tri tip.

Preparing the Tri Tip

Before you start cooking, it’s crucial to prepare the tri tip properly. This involves trimming excess fat, seasoning the meat, and letting it rest at room temperature.

Firstly, trim any visible excess fat from the tri tip. Leaving too much fat on the meat can cause flare-ups on the grill and create an uneven cook.

Next, season the tri tip with your preferred rub or marinade. You can use a store-bought seasoning or make your own. Some popular seasonings for tri tip include garlic, onion, paprika, and cumin. Make sure to season the tri tip generously on all sides.

After seasoning, let the tri tip rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the meat to come to room temperature, which will ensure even cooking throughout the tri tip.

Traeger Grill Setup

Now that the tri tip is prepared, it’s time to set up the Traeger grill. First, set the temperature to 350°F, which is the optimal temperature for cooking tri tip.

Next, preheat the grill for 10-15 minutes. This will ensure that the grill grates are hot enough to sear the tri tip properly.

While the grill is preheating, prepare the grill grates by cleaning them with a grill brush or scraper. This will remove any debris or residue from previous grilling sessions, ensuring that the tri tip doesn’t stick to the grates.

Cooking the Tri Tip

Once the Traeger grill is preheated and the grill grates are clean, it’s time to cook the tri tip.

Firstly, place the tri tip on the grill grates with the fat side facing up. This will allow the fat to render and baste the meat as it cooks. Close the lid and let the tri tip cook for around 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 110-115°F.

Next, flip the tri tip over using tongs and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F for medium-rare. Make sure to check the internal temperature regularly using a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Once the tri tip has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy tri tip.